Phenology, roots and reproductive allocation, but not the LHS scheme, shape ecotypes along an aridity gradient

摘要

Highlights?Ecotypes are a crucial way for species to span large climatic gradients.?Phenology, roots and reproductive allocation are key traits along aridity gradients.?The Leaf-Height-Seed traits (SLA, plant height, seed mass) were not changing.?Plants from southern hillslopes have similar traits as conspecifics from north slopes.?South slopes are unlikely to harbour ecotypes better adapted to aridity.AbstractThis study tested systematically at two spatial scales for key traits shaping within-species ecotypic differentiation under increasing aridity. It assessed different plant strategy theories and considered potential implications for climate change.We studied the widespread Mediterranean grassBrachypodium hybridum